It is snowing and cold outside.This is a time to find some outdoor activity that relates to fishing to keep busy. Perhaps it is time to work on a tackle system.

This system is dependent upon your planed fishing. It is simple if all of the fishing is from a single boat for one species. If wading, then organization takes some planning for weight and limited storage space. There are just so many pockets in a fishing vest.

Maybe your plan is to fish for different species in different locations under a variety of conditions. It is easier to have a number of tackle boxes. Then label the boxes by species which you anticipate finding.

A simple way to keep tackle separate is to use clear plastic tackle boxes. They come in a variety of sizes with moveable dividers. Into each box go lures for a specific species.

Check to see if any lures need hook replacement or other repair. Advance checking saves time later on the water. Why spend time sharpening hooks when there are fish out there for the catching?

In a single box, you may put a few lures that work on the surface, with some that are deep diving. Just to be on the safe side add some that work in between those areas. When it comes to soft plastics, also put several of each favorite color in zip lock bags and add to the boxes. Putting them in the plastic bags prevents the colors from bleeding into each other.

For live bait fishing all terminal tackle goes in these same boxes. There is a variety of hooks and a selection of weights and/or floats.

For wade fishing and fly fishing, small plastic boxes which fit into pockets are good idea. It is also good to include a few lures for each situation for unexpected situations.

Label each box as to species. An additional box holds, a few band aids, a knife, compass, flashlight, pliers and forceps.

When it comes time to go fishing, add the boxes you need in day pack. Add a camera and take off.

This is not the only system in the world. But, any system is better than none. Once you have a place for everything and everything in its place, you can concentrate on catching fish.